Tiegan Ruddy has fulfilled one childhood dream by turning pro and hopes it will be a stepping stone to fulfilling another - establishing herself in Ireland's senior set-up.
Ruddy, 22, has represented her country throughout the age grades and has played once at senior level - in a friendly against Wales when she was 16.
Following her move to FC Sion from Peamount last week, she believes she can step up to the grade required to persuade Vera Pauw to bring her on board.
READ MORE: Tiegan Ruddy insists Peamount's WNL title race isn't done yet despite hitting a slump
"The move was sudden in a way but it was always in my mind to go away," said the defender, who was a part of the Peas' underage structure before making her senior debut for the club six years ago.
"It's my dream to play for Ireland again and with me now being in a full-time environment and the standards that are expected, it will make me a better player and person and hopefully, yeah, I can push my way into the senior team.
"But for now I'll keep working on myself, training as hard as I can, being in the right mindset and hopefully that day will come that I can represent Ireland again."
Ruddy had told her agent that she wanted to finish her studies before pursuing a pro career.
"I wanted to get my degree because that was really important to me and my family," she explained.
"I knew I had to get an education, so I finished up my Business and Law degree course in Maynooth and then had discussions with my agent.
"A few clubs were showing interest. I didn't want to rush it and make any rash decisions, but in the end I just thought this is the right move for me."
Ruddy initially visited the Swiss second-tier club for three days to get a feel for the place.
She was happy with the welcome she received from the playing squad and new management and was impressed by the modern training facilities.
A gym is currently being built and the grounds are impressively situated in a valley surrounded by mountains.
"The players were lovely, it put my mind at ease," Ruddy said.
"I trained for three days and the coach (Julien Marendaz) was really good. I can learn a lot from him - from his vision for the team and for me, personally. I think it's what I need.
"I also wanted to experience playing football in a different culture. French wasn't my strong point in school but I'm excited to learn and try and immerse myself in a new culture.
"It's kind of like a new build. This is the first year where they've had this new manager and sporting director, they have new players in from different countries so it's all brand new.
"I'm excited to be part of it, there's a really good atmosphere at the club, it's in a beautiful part of the world.
"I just thought it was the right fit and I'd give it a go. I'm obviously nervous but I think I'm ready now."
With that excitement comes sadness at leaving behind Peamount and her friends there.
"It feels like it was the right time to push on, even though I love Peamount, the girls, the staff, everyone," Ruddy said.
"It was always going to be hard to leave there, I live only 15 minutes up the road and with the friends I have there, it was tough to go.
"But I can talk to a brick wall so hopefully it won't be too challenging to make new friends!
"I hope the girls can push on and finish strong in the League."
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